In 1883, he was given the chance to work as the Pawnee interpreter with Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show.

At first, her parents objected to their refined young daughter marrying a cowboy, but eventually they agreed to the union.

Their first season was a financial disaster where they re-organized as a smaller operation called "Pawnee Bill’s Historical Wild West Indian Museum and Encampment Show."

Lillie added Jose Barrera to the cast; he was widely popular performing as "Mexican Joe".

The show included Mexican cowboys, Pawnee, Japanese performers, and Arab jugglers.

The Lillies completed work on their Arts-and-Crafts style home on Blue Hawk Peak in 1910.

While driving back to their ranch that night, Pawnee Bill lost control of their vehicle.